A Day with a Pro: Former Footballer Lee Martin Inspires Earlscliffe Students

Posted: 22nd March 2025

At Earlscliffe, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom – and that philosophy came to life as we welcomed former professional footballer Lee Martin to campus for an inspiring afternoon of insight, motivation, and elite training.

Lee, enjoyed a successful footballing career at Manchester United securing a wealth of experience on the pitch but also powerful lessons in discipline, resilience, and teamwork – values that align closely with our own of community and respect.


Q&A with a Pro: Lessons in Life and Sport

The afternoon kicked off with a relaxed but deeply engaging Q&A session, where students had the chance to ask Martin about life as a professional footballer. From training routines and career highlights to overcoming injuries and setbacks, Martin spoke candidly about the highs and lows of life in professional sport.

He also shared how the mindset developed in football – goal-setting, self-belief, and staying focused under pressure – can be applied in all areas of life, whether in academics, personal growth, or future careers.

“It’s about more than just football,” he told students. “It’s about having the right attitude, showing up every day, and giving your best—even when no one’s watching.”


On the Pitch: Professional-Level Training

After the Q&A, Martin took to the pitch with students for an exclusive pro-level training session. From precision drills and tactical movement to match play and mentoring, the session offered a taste of what it’s like to train at the highest level.


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More Than a Visit—A Reflection of Our Values

At Earlscliffe, our core values of curiosity, courage, compassion, and community are at the heart of everything we do. Martin’s visit was more than just a special event—it was an opportunity to enrich learning through real-world connection, showing students what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

We believe in opening doors to experiences that inspire, motivate and broaden horizons. Whether it’s through academic enrichment, university guidance, or encounters with professionals like Martin, we are committed to preparing students not just for exams—but for life.


The Power of Local Partnerships

Bringing in local professionals like Martin Lee adds another dimension to our student experience. It gives our learners the chance to hear different perspectives, build networks, and explore pathways they may not have previously considered.

As a school rooted in both excellence and real-world relevance, we’ll continue to seek out these valuable opportunities – helping our students see that whatever their goal, the journey starts with curiosity and confidence.


A huge thank you to Lee Martin for sharing his time and insights with our community – we hope to see him back at Earlscliffe again soon!

About Lee Martin:

Lee Martin is a former professional footballer whose career began at Manchester United, where he rose through the academy ranks and made his Premier League debut. Over the years, he played for a number of respected clubs including Ipswich Town, Millwall, Gillingham, and Exeter City, earning a reputation for his pace, work ethic, and leadership on and off the pitch. Now based back in his home county of Kent, Lee is passionate about giving back to the game and inspiring the next generation through coaching, mentoring, and community engagement.